The traditional solar panels – often rectangular black surfaces – are boring and do not always fit well in the design of a building. That should be done differently, Van Dijken (28), who was already walking around as a kid in the glass factory of his family in Waddinxveen of the same name. “I really wanted to make something that can be seen, without losing a return,” says the alumnus.
An optical technique is used when making the colorful solar panels. © TU Delft
Van Dijken developed façade sun panels that are fully integrated into the outside wall of a building. No bulky brackets or structure constructions, but sleek design in various colors, patterns and even with graphic art.
Solar panel market is recovering: more than 14 percent growth in a month, especially thanks to consumers
The panels combine glass, solar cells and a smart mix of pigments and interference coatings. ,, This creates rich colors and sharp images, without much yield being lost. Until now, the more color, the less power. This optical technique breaks that limit. And because they are beautiful, they can stand out, so that a much larger facade surface can be used. ”
And that is gold in a time when buildings have to become more and more self -sufficient. The young engineer has since set up his own startup: SOL R&D. Together with artists, designers and architects, he is working on creations, for which many entrepreneurs are already in line.